Playful, entertaining, and absolutely informative, our Get to Know series allows the personalities of the faculty and staff who make up the Darlington Community to shine.
According to her husband Frank ('77), Alice Clements failed at retirement. The Darlington Community is glad that she did. A longtime Darlington Tiger, she taught third grade at the school from 2005 until her attempted retirement in 2014. She served as a long- and short-term substitute teacher for various grades during the last three years. Alice just couldn’t stay away from Darlington and this fall we welcomed her back into the classroom as full time science teacher for grades 3-5.
How long have you worked at Darlington?
Nine years previously. This is my first year back after taking three years off.
Where did you grow up?
Tifton, Ga.
Tell us a little about your family:
I am married to Frank ('77) and we just celebrated our 33rd anniversary. We have two grown daughters, Sarah ('08) and Caroline ('10).
Why did you choose Darlington?
I went back to school as an adult in hopes of becoming a teacher at Darlington one day! My two daughters had been students here for years, and I had seen firsthand what a great school it was. I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
Your seven-word philosophy on education is…
Students thrive when respected, challenged and encouraged.
What makes a good teacher?
Good teachers treat their students with respect and present material using a variety of methods in order to reach a variety of learning styles. They have high expectations and share those with the students. They let their students know that they believe in them and that they "CAN DO IT"!
What music is playing in your car?
Sirius Channels: Soul Town or The Groove
Who was your favorite teacher (and why)?
Mrs. Sparks, who taught me United States History. I liked the way she presented the historical information to us and she was a great storyteller!
My favorite movie is…
"Shawshank Redemption"
What makes a good student?
A good student is one who is respectful to others and puts forth his or her best effort. He/she perseveres even when the work is hard. He/she is one who is willing to take a risk and try something new without worrying about getting it perfect! A good student comes to class prepared to learn.
My favorite trip was…
A trip to Italy with my family after my daughter's graduation from pharmacy school.
If I could travel anywhere it would be…
Anywhere in Europe
E-book or hardcover?
Hardcover
Beach or mountains?
Beach
The last book I read for fun was…
"A Land Remembered" by Patrick Smith
Four people I’d like to take to coffee…
Princess Diana, Ronald Reagan, Kate Middleton, and Peter Jennings
My hobby is…
I love a good DIY project and planting flowers in the spring.
Cats or dogs?
Dogs
Only my friends know I…
Love, love a good dance party!
When I want to crush karaoke, my song is…
"Love Shack" by the B-52's (P.S. - I would NEVER do karaoke!)
My favorite saying is…
Can't never could!
What I like most about Darlington is…
The friendly community of staff, faculty, students and parents.
